SQUEEZING BLOOD OUT OF A TURNIP

Tips are given for short line maintenance-of-way managers as to how to get the most for their money. Planning is the number one priority. Managers should know the market they currently serve, the organizational objectives, financial limitations, the service plan and should assess existing and projected traffic density. They should talk with and listen to their workers and accountants, be aware of specific line segments and maintenance-of-way requirements, develop scheduling for specific tasks and prepare a functional budget which takes into account not only tasks to be done, but also payroll and incidentals, try to piggyback purchase orders with Class I railroads or another railroad needing the same iten, time orders in certain quarters when prices are less expensive, know what needs to be done with regard to the condition of the track, ties, drainage, etc., by inspecting them, and above develop a relationship with those who have the political powers in their locality. Examples of successful and innovative cost saving techniques used by various railroads are given.

• Availability:
  • Find a library where document is available. Order URL: https://www.library.northwestern.edu/find-borrow-request/requests-interlibrary-loan/lending-institutions.html
• Authors:
  • BERTEL, R D
• Publication Date: 1990-7

Media Info

• Pagination: 6 p.
• Serial:
  • Modern Railroads
  • Volume: 45
  • Issue Number: 13
  • Publisher: K-III Press, Incorporated
  • ISSN: 0736-2064

Subject/Index Terms

• TRT Terms: Budgeting; Maintenance management; Planning; Purchasing; Scheduling
• Subject Areas: Finance; Freight Transportation; Highways; Planning and Forecasting; Railroads;

Filing Info

• Accession Number: 00496868
• Record Type: Publication
• Files: TRIS
• Created Date: Aug 31 1990 12:00AM